Fairytale or Truth?

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” 

1 Peter 3:15

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It was a typical meal-night evening at the Short North Columbus Dream Center. I was at my usual spot, standing next to the tall, round prayer table, index cards and ink pens in hand. Chatting with guests as they filtered into the sanctuary, I discreetly asked if they had a prayer request to jot down or if they’d be okay with praying together on the spot. One particular gentleman who I’d not met before, stopped and turned back to me as I asked the question. With obvious sincerity but also a bit of life’s-hit-me-hard irritation, he looked me in the eye and asked, “Do you really believe that stuff? It seems like a fairytale to me.”

I could see that this was not just an attempt to harass (we get plenty of those), but an honest, heart-felt question. Shifting away from incoming guests and giving him my full attention, I said. “Yes. Yes, I do. Do you mind if I tell you why?”

He nodded while showing an authentic interest in how anyone could believe in the “fairytale” of prayer or all this “God-stuff.” Extending my hand to introduce myself, I asked his name and then we began a 10-minute conversation of the trials of my life, most of which God had not removed, many of which I created myself and all of which God had been faithful to walk me through. At this point the conversation shifted, Ronny, looking down at the floor began sharing the troubles of his own life, including the grip of addiction. As the conversation ended, I assured him that I would continue to pray, and he walked away to find a seat for the service. Later, after the message and during the hot-meal provided in the dining hall, Ronny shook my hand again and thanked me for talking with him. I will continue to pray for Ronny to surrender his life to Christ and be freed from the vice-grip of addiction. No one is too far gone for the grace of God.

Two points I’d like to pull from this true story.

#1 is to always be ready to explain why we have hope in Christ. It doesn’t have to perfect or pretty, just real. Share (short version) what Jesus Christ did (and continues to do) for you. You’ll be surprised how He has uniquely equipped you to serve those He brings your way.   

#2, keep in mind that prayer isn’t about the Lord removing life’s challenges or blessing us with all the bells and whistles of life. Yes, we’re to bring all your requests to Him, but knowing that sometimes He says, “No.” Sometimes He says, “Not yet.” Sometimes He’s silent. Sometimes He says, “Yes.”  Whatever He says, it is for our good and His glory. We must trust (i.e. have faith) that He loves us and that He knows what’s best. No matter the outcome.

Anything you’ve done, God can forgive. Anything that’s been done to you, God can heal. – Alex McFarland

Let’s pray….

My Father, Thank You for equipping Your people to share what You’ve done in them, and help us share that with others. Reminding those You bring our way, that genuine hope is only found in You.  Cause us to rely on Your Holy Spirit to do the rest. Knowing, only He can change hearts. In Jesus’ mighty name I pray. Amen.

Written by Becky White for the Lord Jesus

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